Everything a Bride Needs to Know About Waxing for Her Big Day

Let's face it: There's a fair share of Latinas with full, dark hair, and that, mis amigas, is not limited to our heads. Yes, it just might feel like we shave more often than the average woman, spend more on hair removal, and (TMI alert!) have a need to tend to a particularly pesky 'stache. There, I said it. So, on your big day I thought you should be armed with some need-to-know tips about waxing from a pro and called on Noemi Grupenmager, the Brazilian founder of Uni K Wax Center in NYC. Here's what she had to say. * De nada*.

Why is waxing the most ideal form of hair removal for a bride's wedding day?

Waxing removes hair for a longer period of time and with better results than any other method. It removes the hair at the root and not just at skin level and typically lasts anywhere from three to six weeks—just what you need for your wedding day and honeymoon.

Which form of waxing is best and why?

Elastic wax! It is a 100-percent-natural formula made from pine tree resin, beeswax, and essential oils applied at body temperature. It opens the pores slowly and moisturizes the skin, allowing the wax to gently remove the hair.

What do you find is a Latina's biggest concern when it comes to getting waxed?

Latinas are meticulous when it comes to grooming and take a lot of pride in the way we allow the world to see us. We consider waxing as part of our grooming regimen and often wax multiple parts of our body in order to show off our beautiful skin. Our only concern is quality. We want to make sure that our waxing experience is with a professional who knows how to remove hair fast, effectively, and with minimal discomfort. As we should!

How soon before your wedding day should you get a wax and why?

If you have never waxed the area before, the closer to the big day the better because your hair has become used to other hair-removal methods such as shaving, which results in uneven growth until it adapts to the waxing cycle. If you have waxed before, two to three days before the big day is ideal. Also, if you're going to have a trial wax, I would recommend doing so one month prior to your wedding day. This allows you time to rehydrate your skin for a more effective wax just before your wedding day for a longer period of smooth skin through your honeymoon.

What is the proper way to prep your skin for a wax?

Grow your hair to about 1/4 inch in length. If it's too short, the wax may not effectively attach to the hair follicle.

Exfoliate the areas you're having waxed. It's important to buff away dead skin cells to avoid clogged pores and ingrown hairs. Your last exfoliation should be at least two days before the wax treatment.

Moisturize your skin properly until the day before the wax to keep the area hydrated (and after to keep your skin looking fabulous, of course).

What are some things you shouldn't even think about doing before your wedding?

There are lots of rules. If you tan often, have a wax first, then allow a day or two before soaking up some sun. (Editor's note: Don't forget that sunscreen! Yes, I'm being preachy.) Though microdermabrasion does remove dead skin cells, which is ideal before you wax, allow about two days before waxing to allow the skin to heal. If you are having any chemical treatment or using a topical acne treatment, consult your doctor and waxer before your service. Also, you should absolutely not drink alcohol before the wax. Drinking tightens your pores, which could make the hair more difficult to remove. And, finally, if you are very sensitive during your menstrual cycle, wax either before or after those days.

How can you keep breakouts and razor bumps at bay?

Avoid any hair-removal method that gives you ingrown hair and breakouts. Breakouts can occur when you use products with chemicals like depilatories. Shaving (especially with a dull blade) also makes the skin prone to ingrown hairs. If you do get an ingrown hair, I recommend applying Uni K Wax Center Ingrown Hair Roll-On, $22, unikwax.com, because it moisturizes the skin, reduces inflammation, and helps release the hair caught in the follicle. Also, avoid aggravating the area by avoiding tight clothing.

What's the key to making your service last and keeping your skin smooth?

Maintaining healthy and hydrated skin is essential for making your service last. Drink lots of water to hydrate from the inside out, and use a great daily moisturizer to lock in moisture. Exfoliating up to two days prior to a wax also assists in hair removal.